Australia braces for rare East coast cyclone as warnings extend over 500 kilometres

Australia’s east coast is under high alert as Tropical Cyclone Alfred strengthens, moving towards Brisbane, the country’s third-largest city. Authorities have issued severe weather warnings covering more than 500 kilometers (311 miles) across Queensland and New South Wales,

Authorities have issued severe weather warnings covering more than 500 kilometers (311 miles) across Queensland and New South Wales, affecting millions of residents.

According to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, destructive wind gusts of up to 155 kph (96 mph) could develop from Thursday afternoon (March 6), with the cyclone expected to make landfall near Brisbane early Friday morning (March 7) as a Category 2 storm.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged residents to take the situation seriously. "Prepare, take this seriously. This is a rare event, and the government is responding at all levels. Queenslanders, as well as those on the north coast of New South Wales, need to do the same," he said.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli warned that the cyclone could hit the coast during high tide in the middle of the night, increasing the risk of severe flooding. "We are asking Queenslanders to prepare, and we are working across all levels of government to support the state through this difficult period," he stated.

Crisafulli also acknowledged that for many residents, this could be their first experience with a cyclone. "If you stay connected, follow the right steps, and make preparations now, you will get through this. We have been urging people to get ready for days, and now it’s a matter of hours rather than days. There’s still time—time to plan evacuation routes, secure homes, and stock up on essentials," he emphasized.

Although Category 2 cyclones are considered moderate on the five-tier scale, authorities warn they can still cause significant damage. Strong winds could bring down trees, damage caravans, and dislodge boats from their moorings.

Meanwhile, footage from Brunswick Heads in New South Wales, filmed on Wednesday (March 5), shows powerful waves crashing onto the shore. Reuters has verified the location by matching the beach layout with satellite imagery and confirming the date through the file’s metadata.

Authorities are also warning of extreme rainfall, with totals reaching up to 800 mm (31.5 inches) in some areas—exceeding the average for the entire month of March. The heavy downpours could trigger life-threatening flash flooding, adding to the risks posed by the approaching cyclone.

With emergency services on standby, officials are urging residents to stay informed and take immediate precautions as the storm approaches.

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